From Camper to Counsellor

Countinuing The Tradition At Camp Sokil

By Elina Chekh

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Camp Sokil has been my summer getaway for 6 years now. For 4 years I was a camper and 2 years a counsellor and I can honestly say it shaped me into the person I am today. It all started when a close friend of mine suggested that I go to the camp Sokil. I signed up for the first week and the first thing I discovered was the rich Ukrainian culture that was embedded in each of our activities. I learned more and more every year and got to experience a little bit of Ukraine for 3 weeks. The thing that hooked me to this camp are the campers and the comfortable atmosphere that the Sokil staff provided. As a camper I was treated as an equal and as a friend. The campers were always a part of the decisions making.

The counsellor`s world include everyone`s ideas and opinions in a respectable manner. As a camper I loved the beautiful setting we were put in. Crystal clear lake, lush forests, clean beach, Ukrainian church and monuments. There was never a dull moment at the camp.

As a counsellor, my eyes were open to a completely different world. The most important lesson I learned as a counsellor is how to balance a relationship between being a friend and an authority figure. I believe that kids need someone that they could be comfortable with but also someone who could guide them and pass on knowledge and wisdom. The best part about being a counsellor is being around kids. I take in so much from them, and apply it to myself to be better role model.

Working here for two years helped me gain patience, empathy and understanding which I use everyday outside of camp. Overall camp Sokil has been a life altering experience for me and I hope as many people as possible could step in my shoes and learn as much as I did here. Can`t wait to meet this year new and returned campers!

Camp Sokil 2014 Schedule

Session Week 1 –

Sunday July 6^th to Sunday, July 13^th

Session Week 2 –

Sunday July 13^th, to Sunday, July 20^th

Session Week 3 –

Sunday July 20^th, to Saturday, July 26^th

Registration dates and contact

information:

You can mail your registration in to UNF Camp Sokil, 145 Evans Ave. Toronto, Ontario M8Z5X8 or by e-mail to toronto@unfcanada.ca or you can come in person on the following dates:

In Person Registration Dates:

Tuesday, June 3^rd, 10^th, 17^th, 24^th and Tuesday, July 1^st  2014

Time: 7:30pm-8:30pm

Place: Ukrainian National Federation – Toronto Branch, 145 Evans Ave, Toronto, Ontario, M8Z 5X8

For more information please call: 647-964-3472

Online registration: unfcanada.ca